Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Thing 1 L2P2

The Networked Student-The Video is a great overview of how to guide students to and through connected learning. As I watched the video, I mentally tried to adapt this for third grade students who come from various technological backgrounds. Points that I find the most relevant to this age group are: evaluating sources; using the school's (district's) data base and Google scholar; perhaps a class social bookmarking site; and the use of m3p players. I found this video to challenge me to best practices as it guided me through the process. Thanks for sharing this!

Monday, July 21, 2008

Thing 23

Yippee ! I made it!!!

My favorite Thing is not an individual item, but knowing that I have a little better idea of how the www is being used. I feel much more up to date and with it. There was only one “Thing” that was not for me: cataloging my personal library. Everything else seemed very relevant. It's great to know that online learning is something I enjoy. It has great possibilities for my future.

Ever since I took my first computer course at Region IV and they gave us a screwdriver and had us dismantle an Apple II, I have enjoyed using computers. However, I had reached a plateau. I’m so glad I took this class. It has helped me to keep climbing the mountain range.

One word: Inspiring

One sentence: This was a great way to learn about all the wonderful software loaded on the new laptops!

Thing 22

Nings are interesting! I like the way the site is organized into folders so it is easy to navigate. Just like every other social site whether online or in person, there were people relating thoughtfully and those that were just unloading frustrations. Over all, I think it would be fun to join a group and learn from a wider group of people.

Thing 21

It's amazing! The video finally posted to my blog. According to the help page, the site has intermittent problems uploading videos. I couldn't get the video to load using Firefox so I switched to Microsoft Explorer. It took two tries, but it finally worked. I don't think I'll be having students post their videos until the process gets sorted out. However, I really enjoyed making the Photostory video and think my students will, too. It's a great hook for reluctant writers.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Thing 20

50 States and Capitals

I like the variety of topics available on TeacherTube and YouTube. It's simple to search for a video that will enhance a lesson or give me a quick tutorial. There are a lot of clever people who have make their work available.

Thing 19

I really enjoy the Dashboard on my Mac so I played with the widgets. I added Yahoo Maps to my google homepage. It works well and I had fun planning all the trips I'm going to take when I've finished Thing 23. I also explored Twitter and think it would be a fun way to stay in touch with people.

Thing 18

Layers and layers and layers! There is so much to choose from in Open Office and Goodgle Apps. I've imported the district calendar into a family calendar and certainly enjoy how easy it is. There are so many templates to choose from the ideas are endless. It's great to have so many options readily available. I'm glad that Open Office was loaded on the district computers. I a proponent of free use software. All of the programs look very familiar and should be easy to use.